WEST BROM CHASE HUDDLESTONE AFTER LOSING DARREN FLETCHER

Premier League side West Bromwich Albion are reportedly chasing Hull City star Tom Huddlestone after rival Stoke City snapped up Darren Fletcher.

The Baggies are seeking a replacement after Fletcher agreed a two year deal with City last week. The 30-year old Huddlestone has a contract clause that could see him exit Hull if they were relegated from the top flight.

With the Tigers exiting the top flight, West Bromare keen on signing him as his release clause is £2 million. Huddlestone joined Hull from Spurs in 2013 for £5million. He agreed to two year contract renewal last term so his deal is in its final year.

With Hull set to spend time in the Championship, the player is likely to exit KCOM stadium. The player was quite emotional when the club was confirmed relegated after their loss to Crystal Palace.

West Brom boss Tony Pulis is hoping to replace Fletcher without another experienced player. They finished in the top ten last term and want to replicate the form at least and possibly push up higher.

The 33-year old Fletcher was consistent under Pulis, playing 91 straight games. The former Manchester United star was the skipper and a key player for West Brom. He says Stoke is a new challenge that he would love to take on.

Stoke manager Mark Hughes is excited that the top player is the first signing after a poor run which saw they finish 13th in the league. Hughes said he has admired Fletcher from afar so he is delighted that the star finally joined.

“He has shown over the past two seasons that his qualities and appetite for the game haven’t diminished any way [after years at Old Trafford and at West Brom], and I believe that his experience and leadership qualities will significantly enhance us,” Hughes added.